Sleep Apnea and Rhinoplasty

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea, then you know how it affects your sleep and ability to breathe. But did you know that people with sleep apnea are, according to a new study, about 30% more likely to have a heart attack than those without the disorder? Most apnea sufferers use a CPAP breathing machine while sleeping to regulate breathing, but it’s not the only way to provide relief. In some cases, rhinoplasty is an effective treatment for breathing problems such as sleep apnea.

Functional Rhinoplasty as Treatment

Though the majority of rhinoplasty surgeries are done for cosmetic reasons, functional rhinoplasty has been used to correct deviated septum and other breathing issues for many years. Now, more sleep apnea patients are seeking treatment through rhinoplasty. Unfortunately, rhinoplasty as a treatment is only effective for some patients, as apnea is often not only caused by nasal issues. For those with nasal blockage and sleep apnea, functional rhinoplasty can help patients to better tolerate the CPAP mask so it is more effective.

Side Benefits of Rhinoplasty for Sleep Apnea

Many patients who undergo functional rhinoplasty choose to have cosmetic changes made to the nose at the same time. If you’re interested in having a duel cosmetic/functional rhinoplasty, bear in mind that though the functional part of the surgery may be covered by insurance, you’ll have to pay for the cosmetic changes out of pocket. These costs could be slightly lower than normal, however, since you’ll already be in surgery for the functional rhinoplasty. Also, having both procedures done at once rather than at two separate times reduces risks and recovery time. If you’ve always disliked some aspect of your nose, this type of procedure is very efficient and allows for harmony between the structure and aesthetic qualities of the nose.

Your Options for Rhinoplasty to Aid with Sleep Apnea

Common signs of sleep apnea include frequent nighttime waking, excessive daytime sleep, GERD, difficulty functioning during the day and morning headaches. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, see your physician or a sleep specialist. If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and suspect nasal blockage is making your CPAP use difficult, contact a qualified and experienced rhinoplasty specialist to schedule a consultation and see if they may be able to help.

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